Contracting Officer 2

Metra•Chicago, IL

About The Position

Reporting to the Manager, Procurement, the Contracting Officer 2 is responsible for procurement processes and designated assignments, including reviewing, preparing, and executing moderately complex procurement contracts and documents. The role facilitates effective vendor relationships, researches cost information, and ensures procurement activities comply with applicable local, state, and federal regulations while safeguarding the agency’s interests and contractual relationships. The position is part of Metra’s Procurement Operations, which is headed by the Senior Division Director and includes Procurement, Materials & Services Procurement, Professional Services Procurement, and Construction & Facility Maintenance. Metra serves Cook, DuPage, Will, Lake, Kane, and McHenry Counties in Northeastern Illinois. This position is subject to the Revolving Door prohibition under the State Officials and Employees Act. Certain employees, or their spouse or immediate family member, may be prohibited from accepting employment or compensation from a non-Metra employer for one year after separation if the employee was personally and substantially involved in awarding or fiscally administering a contract of $25,000 or more to that employer. Metra is a railroad employer subject to the Railroad Retirement Tax Act, not the Social Security Administration. The final salary depends on the candidate’s qualifications; candidates with eight or more years of required experience can expect offers up to the midpoint of the salary range. Meeting minimum qualifications does not guarantee an interview or offer, and the most qualified candidate will be selected.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree, preferably in Business or Public Administration, Supply Chain, Materials Management, or Industrial Distribution; alternatively, a combination of education and experience equivalent to four years in procurement operations, contract administration or management, or as a senior buyer.
Two years of experience in procurement operations, materials management, contract administration or management, or as a senior buyer, preferably in government, railroad, public transportation, or manufacturing.
Working knowledge of contract and procurement principles, practices, and procedures as applied to the transit industry and public agencies.
Working knowledge of procurement processes, including specification and proposal preparation, solicitation methodologies, and preparation of moderately complex contract documents.
Knowledge of local, state, and federal agencies, including the FTA, IDOT, and RTA, and the laws and regulations governing public-sector purchasing and procurement activities.
Proficiency with Microsoft 365, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, for document creation and tracking.
Familiarity with ERP systems, procurement and materials management programs, or solicitation and contract management applications.
Good written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills for negotiation, collaboration with internal and external stakeholders and vendors, and customer service.
Good organization and analytical skills and attention to detail when reviewing and preparing contract documents.
Ability to use sound judgment, discretion, and initiative in making impartial and objective award recommendations and resolving moderately complex, sensitive contract-related problems.
Ability to maintain professional integrity and high ethical standards while adhering to public procurement processes.
Ability to manage and negotiate contracts for professional and non-professional services, materials, and supplies.
Ability to understand, interpret, and communicate policies, procedures, and contract terms and conditions, and to adhere to applicable regulatory requirements.
Ability to prioritize and multitask, and to work under pressure independently or as part of a team.
Ability to analyze data, evaluate proposals, and identify potential risks and issues.

Nice To Haves

Certification such as CPP, CPPB, or CPPM from an accredited procurement program such as the National Institute of Government Purchasing (NIGP), or certification from a similar program.

Responsibilities

Review and prepare moderately complex contracts, specifications, and solicitation documents for goods and services, ensuring compliance with applicable regulations, agency policies and standards, and funding agency requirements.
Research market conditions and products, conduct value analyses, identify vendor sources, and recommend procurement strategies and delivery methods that maximize value.
Recommend, negotiate, and approve specifications, scopes of work, pricing, and contract terms for goods and services.
Provide assistance and guidance to junior-level team members.
Manage competitive procurements, including bidding; prepare and analyze sealed bids, proposals, requests for quotes, and statements of qualifications; and create, administer, and maintain contracts throughout their lifecycle.
Ensure procurement processes comply with local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and requirements.
Monitor contractor performance and project progress, and complete contract close-outs involving delivery schedules, payment provisions, and other requirements.
Review contracts, requisitions, and purchase orders for completeness and timely processing; address contract issues and provide dispute resolution.
Promote safe work practices and maintain and foster a safe work environment.
Perform other related duties as assigned to meet the ongoing needs of the organization.